Modern technology has improved our ability to
quarry, cut, shape, and finish granite, which has dragged it out of the
kitchen and into a host of other applications for the home and office.
Granite began its modern life as a building stone: a durable, sturdy
surfacing material. Granite buildings were erected, most often public
buildings like libraries and courts, composed of both polished and
unpolished granite.
As mining techniques improved and granite became
cheaper, it moved into the home. Because of its hardness and
imperviousness to moisture and acid, granite was a perfect countertop
material. And, today, granite countertops are still the most demanded
of all countertops. It's almost impossible to scratch. When properly
sealed and cleaned, it's almost impossible to stain. Countertops are
custom-made for each application, usually from a template made directly
from the homeowner's cabinets. So the countertop is a perfect fit for
the space. A wide range of colors and edge treatments are available.
Provided the cabinets are strong enough to support the weight of
granite countertops, they are the sturdiest and most durable of all
countertops. Even the most modern solid-surface countertops don't come
close to its strength and scratch resistance. And nothing matches a
granite countertop for beauty. A granite countertop will outlast the
construction of the home, and long after the foundation has cracked and
the walls have tumbled, the countertop will still be as strong and
beautiful as ever.
Granite tiles are an excellent alternative to
solid granite countertops if cost is a factor. Granite tiles can be
laid almost edge to edge, providing the look and feel of a solid
granite countertop, at a fraction of the cost, and quite within the
capability of most do-it-yourselfers.
Granite tiles are also a very popular choice for
flooring. Polished tiles are perfect for formal areas, while honed
tiles should be used in wet locations such as bathrooms and kitchens.
Polished granite tiles, ranging in size from less than 1(mosaic tiles)
to 16 or larger, are also popular for kitchen backsplashes.
The fireplace is another superb place for granite
tile. Either honed or polished, something about a crackling fire next
to the hard stone accentuates a fireplace like nothing else can. It
provides a more formal look to a fireplace than hewn stone or brick.
Entire fireplace hearths, mantles, and surrounds are available, carved
from solid granite. These can be as ornate or simple as the homeowner
desires, and provide a stunning centerpiece to the home.
In the bathroom, granite gives a sumptuous,
luxurious feel. It is often used to surround Jacuzzi tubs or framed
Roman tubs. And the feeling of being immersed in water and wrapped in
polished stone is second-to-none. Granite is the best natural stone to
use in large walk-in showers or steam showers, because of its natural
water resistance. Many bathrooms are lined (floor, walls, and ceiling)
with granite, for a supremely elegant look.
A recent advance in granite finishing technology
has increased the availability of granite sinks. All varieties are
available, from drop-in vanity sinks to countertop vessel sinks and
even farmhouse-style kitchen sinks. Appropriate support is needed for
these heavy sinks, but few things in a house will surpass a granite
sink as a conversation piece.
Outdoors, granite is a superb choice because of
its resistance to the elements. Honed granite will need less
maintenance to retain its look than polished granite will. And honed
granite should always be used near a pool or hot tub, unless tiny
mosaic tiles are used (another popular application) where the grout
lines will provide traction and prevent slipping.
One thing is for sure: there is no substitute for
granite. It adds enormous value to a home. Depending on the
application, it can make a home feel much warmer and more inviting, or
very formal, regal, and impressive. Granite is practice, economical,
and justifiably the most popular natural stone for the home. (cn-stonenet.com)
